NETA Personal Trainer Practice Exam

How can VO2 consumption be calculated if the average METs are provided?

1. Average METs x 5 ml/kg/min

2. Average METs x 2.5 ml/kg/min

3. Average METs x 3.5 ml/kg/min

4. Average METs / 3.5 ml/kg/min

The correct answer is: Average METs x 3.5 ml/kg/min

When calculating VO2 consumption from METs (Metabolic Equivalents), it's important to understand the relationship between these two measures. One MET is defined as the oxygen consumption at rest, which is approximately 3.5 ml/kg/min. Therefore, to convert METs into VO2 (in ml/kg/min), you multiply the average MET value by the oxygen consumption at rest. Using the standard conversion, one MET equates to 3.5 ml/kg/min, meaning if an activity is measured at a certain number of METs, the corresponding VO2 can be determined by multiplying the MET value by 3.5. This calculation allows trainers and exercise scientists to estimate the energy expenditure of various activities, facilitating better training program designs and assessments of cardiovascular fitness. In this context, the correct option reflects the established conversion factor, ensuring that VO2 consumption aligns with the level of physical activity as represented by METs.